More and more NFL rookies are expected to contribute early in their careers. However, for them to make an impact they need to beat out a veteran player. We are going to analyze the situation of specific rookies and determine the likely hood of them winning a position battle.
Rookie Depth Chart Battles: Cameron Heyward
Player: Cameron Heyward
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Position: Defensive end
Competition: Ziggy Hood, Brett Keisel
Chance of winning the battle: 25 percent
Thoughts: The Steelers are always on the lookout for an outstanding defensive player. They also do a nice job of balancing best player available and team needs. Heyward fits the above criteria and figures to make a push for early playing time. Heyward will be battling Brett Keisel and Ziggy Hood for the starting gig. Both vets are coming off of a good year and will not easily give up playing time.
However, Heyward will work his way into the rotation as he is more of a pass rusher than Hood and Keisel. Heyward’s explosiveness and ability to create pressure gives him an edge on passing downs. While he will see playing time, it is unlikely that Heyward unseats Hood and Keisel in the starting lineup.
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